Gateron Glory Yellow vs. TTC Iron

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice can significantly affect your overall typing experience, and two contenders worth considering are the Gateron Glory Yellow and the TTC Iron, both linear switches but with distinct characteristics. The Glory Yellow is recognized for its heavier weight, which provides a smooth keystroke and a satisfying travel distance, making it ideal for users who prefer a more substantial feel under their fingers. Conversely, the TTC Iron stands out with its notably lighter actuation and a distinct clacky sound that resonates with each keystroke, offering a unique auditory element that many users find delightful. While the Glory Yellow leans towards users seeking a more tactile and grounded experience, the TTC Iron caters to those looking for speed and a hint of auditory feedback, making it suitable for both enthusiasts and casual typists. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

TTC Iron Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$5.40

$4.30 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Yellow and the TTC Iron switches, we find that both employ distinct materials that impart unique sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Glory Yellow uses nylon for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sound that is described as deep and full. This is due to nylon's properties as a softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively, leading to a rounder and more muted auditory effect. In contrast, the TTC Iron features POM (Polyoxymethylene) for its housing components, which also yields a deeper sound that is relatively muted, though with a different character. The POM material is known for its unique acoustic properties, producing a sound profile that many users find notably pleasing and distinct from nylon.

While both switches produce deep and muter sound profiles, the differences in their housing materials influence how sound propagates during typing. In the Gateron Glory Yellow, the nylon top housing not only contributes to the auditory experience when keys are released but also enhances the overall tactile feedback due to its softer nature. This means that users will feel a smooth action that complements the deep sound when the keys bottom out. On the other hand, the TTC Iron's POM top housing alters the sound characteristic when the keys are released, emphasizing a somewhat different resonance compared to the nylon, which users may find either favorable or less so depending on their preference for sound profiles.

Ultimately, while the Gateron Glory Yellow and TTC Iron switches utilize different materials for their housing, both can achieve similar acoustic effects due to their design principles. The characteristics of the bottom and top housings play significant roles in the overall feel and auditory experience during operation. Thus, even though the type of plastic used differs, both switches can provide users with a satisfying and deep sound profile, showcasing how diverse materials can still lead to similar results in terms of typing feedback and sound quality. Users who prioritize sound and tactile experience in their keyboard switches may find that both options serve their needs well, despite their distinct materials.

Weight

The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the TTC Iron linear switch present differing characteristics in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Glory Yellow features an actuation force of 50 grams, while the TTC Iron has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams, making the Iron easier to press. Unfortunately, the bottom out force for the Glory Yellow is unspecified, whereas the Iron has a bottom out force of 50 grams, indicating a firmer bottoming out experience when fully pressed down. For typists and gamers who prefer a lighter feel, the TTC Iron would be the preferable choice, allowing for extended use without fatigue. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Gateron Glory Yellow, given its higher actuation force, though the lack of bottom out information leaves some uncertainty regarding its overall feel during prolonged use.

Travel distance

The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch features a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the TTC Iron linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm illustrates how the Glory Yellow offers a slightly deeper keystroke, which might appeal to those who prefer a more traditional feel in their typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Iron, with its shorter travel distance, may provide a quicker response time, making it suitable for gamers who favor rapid key presses. While both switches are linear—meaning they don't have a tactile bump or click feedback—the difference in their travel distances highlights the choice between a more pronounced keystroke and a potentially snappier action. Therefore, if you are seeking a deeper feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow is the way to go, whereas those who prioritize speed may prefer the TTC Iron.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch is relatively quiet, providing a subtle and subdued auditory presence that contrasts sharply with the TTC Iron switch. The Iron's sound profile is characterized by a pronounced clacky quality, creating a crisp and bright resonance with each keystroke. This difference makes the Iron particularly appealing for those who enjoy audible feedback, while the Glory Yellow caters to those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of each switch can vary based on the keyboard construction and the choice of keycaps, so individual experiences may differ.

When it comes to feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch provides a smooth keystroke that delivers a satisfactory travel distance and an enjoyable typing experience. In contrast, the TTC Iron switch is remarkably light, featuring an easy-to-press action that minimizes resistance and allows for fatigue-free typing sessions. The Iron’s buttery smooth travel makes it a strong candidate for extended use, while the light actuation encourages a quick and responsive typing rhythm. Both switches excel in providing a pleasurable typing experience, though the Glory Yellow may offer a steadier feel compared to the effortless action of the Iron.

Overall, the Gateron Glory Yellow and the TTC Iron linear switches cater to different preferences in both sound and feel. If you're looking for a quieter experience with a smooth keystroke, the Glory Yellow might be your go-to option. However, if you prefer an audible, clacky feedback along with an effortless typing feel, the TTC Iron would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches provide enjoyable typing experiences, emphasizing the importance of personal preference when selecting mechanical keyboard switches.

Conclusion

To conclude, choosing between the Gateron Glory Yellow and the TTC Iron linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you prioritize a smooth keystroke and an enjoyable typing experience without too much resistance, the Gateron Glory Yellow is your go-to choice, especially for extended typing sessions where comfort is key. However, if you're looking for a more delightful auditory experience along with light but responsive keystrokes, the TTC Iron might be better suited for you. Its clacky sound adds an engaging element to your typing, making it a great option for both enthusiasts who appreciate feedback in their switches and daily users who desire efficiency without sacrificing pleasure. So, consider what is more important for your typing experience: pure smoothness or a combination of tactile response and sound enjoyment. Depending on that, you can confidently choose the switch that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience the most.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

TTC Iron Linear

$5.40

$4.30 per 10

Learn more